Popular Pet Food Under Investigation After Eight Dogs Euthanased

Serious and incurable condition

More than 70 dogs across the country have contracted a serious illness, with investigations underway into a popular pet food which is believed to be linked to the incurable condition.

According to a 7.30 report, Melbourne University has confirmed 74 cases of megaesophagus, with all dogs involved having eaten Advance Dermocare dry food.

This dry food was voluntarily recalled at the end of last month after a spike in cases of the illness, which causes the oesophagus to become enlarged, inhibiting the ability to move food down to the stomach.

Melbourne University has said that it may take months to definitively conclude that the illness is caused by the food, however the manufacturer has offered to reimburse vet bills.

It is understood that eight cases have occurred where dogs have been euthanased as a result of the condition.

Victoria Police first alerted Mars Petcare, the maker of the product, of the issue after nine of their police dogs were diagnosed with megaesophagus last year.